Things To Do
in Varkaus
Varkaus is a picturesque town located in eastern Finland, surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests. It is known for its industrial history, particularly in the paper and pulp industry. The town offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking for nature enthusiasts.
Varkaus also hosts cultural events and festivals that celebrate its heritage and local traditions.
- "Moikka" - Hi
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvÀ" - You're welcome
- "Yhteystiedot" - Contact information
- "NĂ€kemiin" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $3 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at Lake Saimaa. Enjoy the serene views and breathe in the fresh air.
Visit the Varkaus Water Tower for panoramic views of the city. Grab a bite at a local café afterward.
Relax at a waterfront restaurant and savor traditional Finnish cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll by the lake as the sun sets.
Rent a kayak and explore the stunning waterways around Varkaus. Enjoy the quietness of nature as you paddle along.
Have a picnic lunch on one of the small islands. The nearby flora and fauna will make it a delightful experience.
Return to shore and unwind with a sauna experience. Itâs a perfect way to end a day filled with activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including lakes and forests.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and events.
- Quiet and peaceful lifestyle, ideal for families and retirees.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Affordability of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Smaller range of services and amenities compared to larger urban areas.
- Possibility of social isolation for newcomers or those seeking a vibrant social scene.
Best Activities in Varkaus
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature and historical sites along the trails
Tours
Uncover the best of Varkaus with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Varkaus
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding lakes
Scenic views of the lakes and waterfront area perfect for photography
Picturesque waterway with beautiful views, especially during sunset
Food in Varkaus
Varkaus Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Finnish fish pastry made with fish, pork, and bacon encased in a rye crust. It's a must-try for experiencing authentic Varkaus flavors. Visit local bakeries like Leipomo-Kahvila Honkimaa to savor this delicacy.
Must-Try!
A unique Finnish Easter dessert made from water, rye flour, and powdered malted rye. It has a sweet, malted flavor and is often served with cream and sugar. Sample this iconic dish at restaurants such as Ravintola Rosso for a taste of local tradition.
Also known as Karelian pasty, this is a savory pie filled with rice, mashed potatoes, or carrots. It's a beloved snack and can be found in numerous local bakeries and cafes, including OllinmÀen Viinitila & Kahvila.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Varkaus better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide variety of local produce, fresh berries, mushrooms, and traditional Finnish foods. Visitors can also find food stalls serving grilled sausages, crepes, and other street food delights.
An annual event that showcases the best of street food culture in Varkaus. The festival features a diverse range of cuisines, including Finnish specialties and international flavors, all served from food trucks and stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value personal space, so it's important to respect people's physical boundaries and not stand too close when having a conversation.
Finnish people value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for appointments and meetings.
When visiting a sauna in Finland, it's important to observe sauna etiquette, such as sitting on a towel and respecting others' privacy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Varkaus with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Varkaus
Ensure a smooth experience
In Finland, tipping is not expected or required as it is already included in the service charges or the price of the meal or service. However, if the service is exceptional, a small tip may be given as a token of appreciation.
Payment in Varkaus, Finland is predominantly done using credit or debit cards, and mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted. Cash is less commonly used for transactions, especially in urban areas. It is advisable for visitors to have a credit or debit card for most transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Varkaus.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Varkaus is in summer, from June to August. During this time, you can expect long days with up to 19 hours of sunshine, pleasant weather, and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and swimming in the numerous lakes in the region.
Winter in Varkaus, from December to February, offers a completely different experience with its snowy landscapes and the opportunity to engage in winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The days are shorter with only a few hours of daylight, but the snowy scenery and potential to witness the Northern Lights make it a unique and memorable experience.
Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, provide milder weather and are great times for birdwatching, witnessing the changing colors of the forests, and experiencing the traditional Finnish sauna culture.
Varkaus at Night
Hiking in Varkaus
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking area with various trails for different skill levels, featuring lush forests and beautiful lakes.
Located a bit further away, this national park offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a multitude of hiking paths amidst the Saimaa lake system.
A nature reserve providing a network of trails through beautiful landscapes, ideal for hikers looking to explore nature.
A collection of trails in the MĂ€ntyharju area, known for its picturesque scenery and well-maintained paths.
A local trail around the SÀrkijÀrvi lake, offering a peaceful environment for walking and connecting with nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Varkaus through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Varkaus by plane.
The main international airport in Finland, located in Vantaa, near Helsinki, approximately 300 km southwest of Varkaus.
Located in Kuopio, this regional airport serves both domestic and some international flights, approximately 70 km northwest of Varkaus.
An important airport in Northern Finland, located about 400 km north of Varkaus, serving international and domestic flights.
Located in Pirkkala, near Tampere, this airport is about 240 km southwest of Varkaus and serves various international flights.
Situated in JyvÀskylÀ, around 150 km southwest of Varkaus, this regional airport handles domestic flights and occasional international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Varkaus, consisting mostly of native Finnish speakers.
A minority group in Finland, including some residents in Varkaus who speak Swedish as their first language.
Includes various ethnic groups that have moved to Varkaus, contributing to the cultural diversity.
An indigenous group in Finland, with a small presence in Varkaus.
The Soul of Varkaus
Discover the essence of Varkaus through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Varkaus, played on ice, where players use sticks to hit a puck into the opponent's goal.
Widely played recreationally and competitively, football is a favored sport in Varkaus among all age groups.
A form of floor hockey that is especially popular in Finland, often played in schools and local clubs in Varkaus.
A growing sport in the region, with local clubs and schools participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Both indoor and beach volleyball are enjoyed in Varkaus, with community events and tournaments held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varkaus.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Varkaus offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a focus on fresh, local produce. Look for options like roasted root vegetable salads, creamy mushroom risottos, and plant-based burgers on menus across the city.
Several eateries in Varkaus cater to gluten-free diets, providing gluten-free bread, pastries, and main dishes. Visitors can enjoy options such as gluten-free pizza, hamburgers with gluten-free buns, and even traditional Finnish dishes reimagined with gluten-free ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Varkaus with these cultural adventures.
